SFA choirs and community chorus to present Handel's 'Messiah'

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University combined choirs, Symphony Orchestra and Nacogdoches Community Chorus will present George Frideric Handel's "Messiah" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in W. M. Turner Auditorium.

Handel's three-part oratorio, or unstaged opera, about the life of the messiah, was first performed in 1742. One of the most performed and popular choral works, it is appreciated by audiences all over the globe, said Tim King, SFA professor of music and the concert's director.

In keeping with the Nacogdoches tradition, the combined choirs and orchestra will perform Part 1 of "Messiah," popularly known as "the Christmas portion" and the famous "Hallelujah Chorus."

SFA vocal students, who went through a rigorous audition process, will sing the solos, King explained. Sopranos are Monica Hamilton, Gallatin graduate student; Tiffanny Hamilton, Longview graduate student; Lauren Hewlett, San Antonio junior; LaDonna Jackson, Friendswood senior; and Monica Lancaster, Sulphur Springs graduate student.

Lewisville graduate student John Green and Waco junior Garry Leonberger will sing the tenor solos. Brad Lassiter, Carthage senior; Colin Powell, San Antonio senior; and Christian Teague, North Richland Hills junior; will sing the baritone solos, and Waco junior Patrick Wright will sing the bass solo.

Prior to the concert, the SFA Madrigal Singers will be performing in the lobby. At the evening's conclusion, the audience will be invited to participate in a carol sing-along.

The concert is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and School of Music.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students and youth. For tickets or more information, please call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.